Sudanese army’s Lt Gen Ibrahim Gabir has declared that military operations will persist despite international ceasefire efforts in the ongoing civil war. The conflict, which has resulted in a humanitarian crisis, centers around the dispute with the RSF. Humanitarian access has seen slight improvements, yet concerns about arms and funding from external states persist, complicating the situation further.
In a recent interview, Sudanese Assistant Commander-in-Chief Lt Gen Ibrahim Gabir asserted that the Sudanese army would continue its military offensive amidst international efforts to negotiate a ceasefire in the ongoing 17-month civil war. The army’s operations are aimed at recapturing control of Khartoum from the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which has been in conflict with the army since April 2022 over political governance. The fighting has led to widespread humanitarian crises, with millions displaced and over half of the population facing hunger.
Lt Gen Gabir emphasized that peace talks will not halt military actions, insisting that the RSF must withdraw from occupied territories before a ceasefire can be honored. Additionally, he stated that international pressure should be applied to the RSF to cease fighting and vacate seized properties. The general expressed increased confidence in the army’s position, citing the momentum they have gained in the conflict.
Despite a lack of progress in peace negotiations, U.S. envoy Tom Perriello noted slight improvements in humanitarian access. Aid convoys have managed to reach previously inaccessible areas, although the humanitarian situation remains critical. The army has been accused of hindering aid delivery, yet Lt Gen Gabir denied these allegations and accused the RSF of looting humanitarian supplies.
The army’s focus on the border with Chad stems from concerns over mercenaries and armaments allegedly supplied by the United Arab Emirates, a claim that the UAE denies. Gabir cited credible evidence regarding external support for the RSF and indicated potential discussions regarding arms purchases with Iran, emphasizing the government’s right to seek such arrangements.
Accusations of war crimes against the army were dismissed by Lt Gen Gabir, who acknowledged the possibility of individual misconduct while contesting the presence of systematic abuses. The duration of the civil war remains uncertain, with historical precedents indicating prolonged conflicts in Sudan. The complexity of the situation is exacerbated by the country’s vast size and the scale of the opposing forces, complicating any hope for a decisive resolution.
Ultimately, Lt Gen Gabir expressed steadfast belief in the army’s victory and long-term reconstruction of Sudan, reinforcing the army’s commitment to continuing its operations until control is regained.
The ongoing civil war in Sudan, which erupted in April 2022, has its roots in a power struggle between military factions. The conflict stems from political disagreements following the ousting of former President Omar al-Bashir in 2019. Prolonged hostilities between the Sudanese army and the RSF have led to an escalating humanitarian crisis, characterized by widespread displacement, food insecurity, and allegations of war crimes. The international community has sought to mediate peace talks, but these have made limited progress, emphasizing the entrenched positions of both military groups involved.
In summary, the situation in Sudan remains precarious, with the army determined to maintain its military operations in spite of international peace efforts. Lt Gen Gabir’s statements highlight a firm stance against the RSF, reflecting ongoing humanitarian challenges and potential international complicity. The lack of a definitive timeline for resolution underscores the complexity of the conflict, necessitating continued attention and intervention from the global community to ameliorate the humanitarian impact.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
